Published on
January 3, 2026
Benidorm, one of Spain’s most iconic tourist destinations, has seen an unexpected decline in tourism as the once-bustling Levante Beach Strip becomes eerily quiet. The popular coastal city, known for its vibrant nightlife, beachfront hotels, and tourist-filled promenades, now finds its streets deserted, with many businesses reporting a sharp drop in visitor numbers. This marked change follows a period of thriving tourism and raised concerns about the future of the town’s hospitality and tourism industry.
Known for its party atmosphere, Benidorm’s Levante Beach and Benidorm Strip, areas famous for their bars, clubs, and restaurants, have traditionally attracted thousands of international tourists each year. However, as of early 2026, the normally busy streets appear more like a ghost town, with bars and restaurants struggling to stay open due to the lack of tourists.
Impact on Benidorm’s Popularity as a Travel Destination
For decades, Benidorm has been a staple of mass tourism in Spain, particularly for tourists from the United Kingdom, Germany, and other European countries. Its extensive beaches, lively nightlife, and family-friendly attractions made it a go-to destination for sun-seekers and partygoers alike. However, recent reports show that the once-thriving tourist economy has taken a hit, with tourist numbers plummeting in early 2026.
In addition to the Levante Beach Strip, other parts of the city, such as the Old Town and Poniente Beach, have also seen a sharp drop in visitors. Local businesses, which once relied on a steady influx of international and domestic tourists, are now facing reduced income, and many are concerned about the long-term viability of their operations. Local hoteliers, restaurateurs, and service providers have reported significant reductions in bookings, with empty hotel rooms and deserted tourist attractions becoming a common sight.
Declining Tourism: Factors Behind the Drop
Several factors have contributed to the decline in tourism to Benidorm. One possible reason is the economic uncertainty facing Europe and beyond. Rising costs of living, inflation, and currency fluctuations have made travel less affordable for some international tourists. The UK’s cost-of-living crisis, in particular, has reduced the number of British tourists visiting Spain, who have historically made up a large proportion of Benidorm’s visitors.
Additionally, changing travel preferences and a shift towards more sustainable tourism have contributed to the slowdown. As tourists seek more authentic, less commercialized destinations, Benidorm, known for its mass tourism, may no longer be seen as a desirable option for certain travelers. Eco-tourism and smaller, more intimate destinations have gained favor, leading some to turn away from Benidorm’s bustling and heavily commercialized environment.
The ongoing pandemic recovery could also play a role in the lower numbers. While tourism numbers had been improving after the pandemic, the impacts are still being felt in some regions. Travel restrictions, changing regulations, and the uncertainty of future outbreaks may have contributed to a reluctance to travel to popular tourist hubs like Benidorm, especially among older or more vulnerable tourists.
Challenges for Local Businesses
For Benidorm’s economy, which has long been reliant on tourism, the drop in visitors presents serious challenges. Bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, particularly those along the Levante Beach Strip, are struggling to attract customers, with some even closing early or shutting down for the season. Businesses that depend on nightlife tourism have been hit hardest, as fewer visitors are looking to enjoy Benidorm’s vibrant party scene.
The hotel industry is also feeling the effects of the downturn. Empty hotel rooms have been reported throughout the city, and several hotels are offering steep discounts or even remaining closed during traditionally busy periods. Local tour operators, offering excursions to Altea, Guadalest, and other attractions around the Costa Blanca, are also seeing fewer customers.
In response, many businesses are looking to adapt by offering discounts, shifting their marketing focus, and attempting to attract new tourist segments, such as those interested in wellness tourism or eco-tourism. However, with limited tourism inflow, these efforts may take time to show results.
The Future of Tourism in Benidorm
While the situation remains concerning for the town’s tourism sector, efforts are being made to revitalize Benidorm’s tourism industry. The local government is working to promote diverse tourism offerings to attract a wider range of visitors, including family tourism, cultural tourism, and sustainable travel experiences. Plans are also underway to improve infrastructure and promote off-season tourism, aiming to extend the tourist season beyond the summer months.
There are also efforts to reposition the city as a destination for luxury tourism, targeting high-end travelers with premium hotels, gourmet dining, and bespoke travel experiences. The Benidorm Palace and other cultural venues are being promoted to draw in visitors seeking non-beach-related entertainment, and cultural festivals and music events are planned to revitalize the nightlife scene and bring back visitors.
Conclusion: Benidorm’s Changing Tourism Landscape
As Benidorm’s traditional tourism model faces challenges, the city must adapt to new travel trends and visitor expectations. With its wide range of cultural, leisure, and natural attractions, Benidorm remains a popular choice for many travelers. However, the focus may need to shift from mass tourism to more sustainable and diverse travel offerings. By diversifying its tourism products and promoting a more authentic experience, Benidorm can maintain its place as a key destination on the Spanish coast, ensuring that it continues to attract visitors for years to come.
